Whatcom Medic One Emergency Medical Services

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​​​A​dvanced life support paramedic services are provided in Bellingham, and throughout Whatcom County, by Whatcom Medic One, a nationally recognized provider of quality, cost-effective emergency medical services for over three decades.

Paramedic units provide advanced life support (ALS) response, and patient transportation to the hospital if necessary, throughout Whatcom County. Two units are located in Bellingham, and two are located in the northwestern and central areas of the county.

Basic life support (BLS) medical care and transport is performed by
various county fire districts, supported by Whatcom Medic One paramedic units if necessary.

Whatcom Medic One charges a fee for service to assist in offsetting operational expenses. It is also supported by a 1/10th of one percent countywide sales tax and funding from the City of Bellingham and Whatcom County.

Governance and oversight

Whatcom Medic One is administered and operated by the City of Bellingham through an interlocal agreement with Whatcom County government. This agreement is the result of the
Emergency Medical Services Plan (PDF), intended to guide the Whatcom Medic One system from 2005 until 2012. Subsequent to the plan's adoption, the City and County spent considerable time and effort crafting the interlocal agreement in place today.

The Joint Board is aided by the
Emergency Medical and Ambulance Advisory Board which is charged with coordinating emergency medical services, settling disputes, and making budget and other recommendations to the Bellingham City Council and Whatcom County Council.

In accordance with state requirements, Whatcom Medic One medical operations are directed by a
Supervising Physician. Whatcom Medic One also falls under the jurisdiction of the Whatcom County
Medical Program Director, a position certified by and appointed by the
Washington State Department of Health. This position, operating under the direction and protection of state requirements, is responsible for the education, certification, and quality assurance for the care provided by all emergency medical services in Whatcom County.